The next day arrived ,as the light of the dawn crept into my chamber .I could hear the sound of drums ,conch shells and chariot wheels outside the palace from a distant .The day had come for Yudhishthira to be officially declared as the emperor .But Krishna's words echoed in my mind "Stay Vigilant ,the men who spied on you were none other than Shishupal's men ."
I sat on the bed ,confused and nervous .The whole Bharatvarsh was going to come today ,all the friends and all the foes as well .Should I have been invisible all the time ,like I was before when I came to this era for the first time from Kaliyuga ? Without any identity ,safely beside Krishna all the time ? What if Krishna's dreadful enemies watch me ? The thoughts swirled in my mind without a stop .I had to be extremely vigilant today ,for Krishna's sake .No hindrance should come in this historic moment of Mahabharata because of an ordinary girl from Kaliyuga .Should I even go out of this chamber today ,or stay within ,making an excuse of some illness or discomfort ? Will Krishna become dissatisfied by my act of cowardice ?
Just as I was brooding over ,a soft knock at the door interrupted me .A palace attendant came in ,carrying beautiful ornaments and silks in a tray with her .
"My lady ,Queen Draupadi had selected these ornaments for you ,for today's ceremony .Shall I help you prepare your attire ?" She asked me ,smiling warmly .
I mirrored her smile and nodded in agreement .
As she started to prepare my bath and other rituals for dressing ,I noticed the royal silk saree ,which was dark blue in colour and intricately designed embroidery of peacock feathers were on it .The attendant followed my gaze and smiled knowingly "This silk was chosen by Dwarkadhish himself for you ,my lady . And he even asked me to deliver a letter,for your eyes alone ." She said and handed over to me a letter which was having the scent of Sandalwood ,Tulsi and Rose ,Krishna's signature fragrance .I opened the letter and read it :
Dear Godha
Hope you slept well last night .I know about your thoughts ,which you are brooding over right now .But let me tell you ,your overthinking is completely unnecessary and a waste of time .Why do you fear or worry so much ,when I am with you ? Dear ,I am the one who commands the universe and its elements ,the one who resides in everything and everywhere ,and the one who is your friend ,mentor and lover .You are an ordinary girl from Kaliyuga ,but to me you are my heart's princess ,and I am your prince ,my beloved.
Start seeing yourself the way how I see you ,my beautiful ,kind ,brave and courageous Godha .I have sent you a saree of my choice ,and a pendant of my love .Dress yourself up calmly ,without overthinking ,for my sake .I am looking forward to meet my princess ,my queen ,at the main hall .
Yours beloved
Krishna
Tears welled up in my eyes as I read the letter .Krishna was aware of each and every single thing about me ,about my thoughts ,about my most deepest hidden fears .The attendant looked at my face concerned "My lady ,are you well ?" She asked me softly as she prepared my hair .I wiped my tears ,but my cheeks were still flushed and my eyes still red .
"Nothing ,I am alright...." I said softly and smiled .She nodded her head knowingly and her gaze lingered on the letter for a moment "I don't know what is there inside it ,but I am sure that Lord Krishna's words are as sweet as nectar ,which would melt the hearts of everyone ,even the hard ones .Perhaps ,my lady ,you are too overwhelmed and ecstatic by his words right now ,aren't you ?" She asked me as she braided my her expertly and smoothly ,with grace .I blushed and nodded slowly .
"Dwarkadhish is a very compassionate person ,and his sweet melodious voice removes the darkness from everyone's life ...." I replied .
"I knew it ,my lady .Your eyes sparkled and your cheeks colour turned pink as you opened the letter .You have immense love and devotion for him ." She said smiling .I nodded playfully and held the letter close to my heart .It felt as if I was embracing Krishna himself .
The attendant completed dressing me up and gazed at me for a moment .She smiled warmly and adjusted the pendant slowly "You look radiant ,my lady .Absolutely beautiful ."
I giggled and looked at my reflection in the mirror .The blue hued saree gifted me Krishna ,suited me perfectly .I took a deep breath before leaving outside the chamber ,composing myself .I held the letter given by Krishna tightly with me ,which helped me in comforting my mind and my nerves .I smiled back at the attendant warmly with gratitude ,and walked towards the main hall silently .
As I reached the main hall ,I was surprised to see all the decorations and the place's grandeur .The hall was decorated with intricately embroidered curtains and silks ,and exotic flowers .Servants were scurrying around with plates and trays in their hands .I saw Draupadi who looked beautiful and regal as an empress ,and the other Pandavas ,who looked resplendent in their royal ceremonial attire .And when I shifted my gaze ,I became awestruck and my heart skipped a beat .My beloved Krishna ,who always looked divine in his every form ,today looked so much stunning and handsome which took my breath away .He stood tall and powerful ,and his presence was commanding .His dark ,curly locks of hair cascaded down like a waterfall ,covering his broad shoulders and neck .His shimmering pitambara covered his powerful physique and his yellow dhoti was intricately embroidered with floral patterns of silk threads and gemstones .His ornaments and heavy necklaces defined his neck ,the divine Kaustubha Gem shined in the sunlight ,his beautiful Vaijayanti Mala further increased his divinity .His dark blueish black complexion ,his beautiful eyes like lotus petals, tender and holding the universe's secrets ,his sharp nose ,his disarming smile ,his strong jawline ,his thick black and well defined eyebrows perfectly arched ,his majestic tilaka ,his golden crown adorned with peacock feathers ,everything stole my heart completely .I couldn't help but blush immensely and deeply as I admired him .
Suddenly he turned towards me ,his gaze locking into mine .He knew that I was there ,observing him secretly .He walked towards me ,gracefully and fluidly ,and stood before me with his eyebrows raised . "Enjoying the view from afar ,my dear ?" He asked teasingly .
I blushed and looked away giggling "What ? Uh ...no ,I wasn't looking at you Krishna ,I was just...making sure the curtain was in the right position ."
"Ah I see ,checking on the curtains ,were you ? No worries my dear ,your secret is safe with me ...." He teased me again and looked at the letter which I had in my hand "I see you have my letter .Perhaps you understood whatever I told you ?"
"I did ,my lord .And I must say ,your words were very consoling and pacifying .Thank you...." I replied smiling and touched his feet .Krishna grasped my shoulders ,and gazed at me tenderly and compassionately "You are my beloved ,and I would not like to see you getting upset or sad ,because of anything .Your smile ,your laughter ,your tears ,your love ...everything is mine and mine to cherish ,forever .And besides ,you look absolutely stunning and beautiful today Godha ."
I giggled playfully and nodded in agreement "It's because of you ,that I am beautiful ,Dwarkadhish ....."
"I must leave now ..." He said softly ,his gaze completely on me unwavering "I have to go and welcome the guests .But know this Godha ,I am inside you and you are inside me .Stay safe ,and vigilant......" He replied and walked away slowly ,his gaze still locked on me .I nodded slowly and walked towards the main hall , and stood behind Draupadi .
"Ah ,princess ,you look so pretty .I'm glad to see you here ...." She welcomed me warmly .I smiled back and looked around ,hoping to participate in the preparations .
"Is there anything I can help you with ,Draupadi ? I would love to...." I asked .
She hesitated initially and asked me to be free , but I insisted continuously .Finally ,she handed me a golden basket "You can go and collect flowers ,and make a garland ,for today's guest of honour ." I smiled and accepted the basket, and I was very well aware of the guest of honour . I went to the gardens and collected large amount of flowers .Next ,I started to weave a garland , a huge garland along with pearls .As I was working ,I suddenly heard a commotion outside, and I slowly walked towards the place curiously .
A humble guard was desperately pleading for mercy ,from a prince ,who looked hideous and venomous ,and completely merciless .
"You tell me where to go and where not to go ? Do you think I will listen to the instructions from you ? Don't you know who I am ?" He yelled at the guard .
"My lord ,I ...I didn't mean to disrespect.... I was only...guiding you the way .I am a mere humble servant ,please forgive me ." The guard stammered with fear and pleaded with folded hands ,trembling .
"I will never forgive you ! Why did your King Yudhishthira invite me ,to humiliate ? I shall take your life this instant !" He shouted and was almost going to unsheathe his sword ,when I went and intervened .
"Stop ! Don't show your royal authority and powers over weaker people ! He was just doing his duty ." I said firmly . The prince stood still ,and turned towards me ,his gaze filled with malice and cruelty .
"How dare you command the crown prince of Chedi ?" He sneered. The guard took a step back ,fearful .
"Prince Shishupal ,you are not supposed to treat the others this way ." I said firmly ,but fear crept in me for I knew that I was dealing with one of the worst enemies of Krishna .His gaze lingered on me for a moment and suddenly he smiled ,his face twisted and filled with menace .
"Ah ,I get it .You are princess Godha ,am I right ? The one who is much devoted to Krishna ?" His tone dripped with sarcasm and ill intentions .
"And you are the one ,to whom Dwarkadhish has promised to forgive for a 100 sins ,right ? To your mother ,when you were born ?" I spoke back ,trying to be confident and hiding back my fears .Shishupal's eyes flashed anger and disgust as he heard these lines .
"Such an audacity to say that ? Do you think I am afraid of that cowherd's threats and promises ? Never ! And whom do you call 'Dwarkadhish' ? He is no king ,he is nothing !"
Blood boiled in me ,but I tried to keep my emotions in control .
"Listen Shishupal ,you are underestimating his power .He can kill you in a blink of an eye ,but he is the embodiment of compassion and righteousness .He wants you to realise your mistakes .I won't hear a word against him ."
"Ah ,such a deep bonding ,I see .And what will happen to your beloved Krishna ,when he knows that you are no more ?" He spoke ,dripping with malice and unsheathed his sword ,stepping forward . I became horrified and stepped back ,holding by breath and trying to be courageous .I looked around ,but to my shock no one was there .I was definitely caught up in a secluded area .
"Don't you dare cross your lines ,Shishupal ! Krishna will never forgive you !" I stammered ,but tried to be stern .He laughed maliciously and continued to step forward ,his sword shining to the sunlight .
"Oh ,I am shaking with fear ! I won't hesitate to kill you ,princess Godha .It's you who must learn to be in your place ."
Tears welled up in my eyes .I clasped my hands together and thought of Krishna ,pleading to him for help through my heart and tears .
"My lord ,oh Prana Natha ,oh Krishna ,where are you ? Please ,protect me ,I beseech you ,oh Yadavashreshta ...."
"Whom you are calling ,stupid woman ? Do you think you can really get saved from my wrath .You dared to call me by my name ,and even dared to oppose me .Certainly ,you must be punished ,for your disrespect......" He continued to proceed forward . I stepped back ,hyperventilating heavily ,and pushed myself against the wall. Suddenly I heard the sound of footsteps from distant .
"Be in your limits Shishupal....." A low ,stern voice came from behind .I took a deep breath of relief .Krishna was standing behind ,tall and powerful .His eyes which were always calm and compassionate ,now flashed anger and rage .Shishupal took a step back ,sheathing his sword back .I immediately ran towards Krishna and stood behind him for protection .
"Shishupal ,how dare you threaten the innocent ? I hope you are having a check of your mistakes ." He spoke in an authoritative voice ,
"Krishna ,do you think I am afraid of you ? Do you think I will listen to the words of a mere cowherd?" He replied ,his eyes flashing anger and insecurity .
"Dear cousin ,at least for your parents sake ,please realise your mistakes and start following the path of Dharma and righteousness ." Krishna spoke in a firm ,yet concerned tone .Surely he wanted to give him chance and make him come in the right path .
"You instruct me Krishna ? And do you think I will pay heed to your advice ? Never ! And let me tell you ,this isn't over yet ." He replied and walked away arrogantly ,disappearing into the shadows .Krishna sighed disappointedly and turned towards me ,concerned "Are you alright Godha ?".
I nodded slowly and breathed a sigh of relief "Krishna ,thank goodness you came for me at the right time ,or else I don't know what would have happened...." Before I could continue my sentence ,he kept his hand over my mouth and silenced me "Don't say like that ,my dear .You know me too well ,and you know that I would never ignore your heartfelt pleas and calls .And I won't let anything or anyone harm you ,at any cost .I shall move the lands and mountains ,bend the laws of time and space ,and command the universe ,only to protect the ones whom I love." He vowed firmly .
I smiled at him gratefully and nodded in agreement . "Thank you,my Lord .You are truly a very kind and compassionate friend ."
"More than friend , I am your lover ,husband ,mentor ,teacher ,mother and father ...your everything ,my love." He said smiling.
The sound of drums and conch shells echoed through the whole place ,marking the beginning of the ceremony .After a lingering glance ,Krishna took me from there towards the main hall where we parted .He went and accompanied the Pandavas ,while I stood beside Subhadra and Kunti . All the nobles ,dignitaries and kings of other kingdoms of Bharatvarsha were present ,silently witnessing the coronation ceremony ,including the elders of Kuru dynasty .I saw Shishupal ,standing with Duryodhana and Shakuni , whispering and gossiping among them secretly .Various rituals and austerities were being performed in making Yudhishthira as the emperor and Draupadi as the empress .Sages and Brahmins across the country had come there ,making the ritual more sacred and divine .They performed Yajnas ,invoking the Gods to bless the kingdom .
Now the time had come to pay respects and honour a special guest among everyone present .Yudhishthira stood up and flashed back a warm ,grateful smile towards everyone .
"Today ,I welcome all the mighty kings ,revered sages ,nobles ,dignitaries and the gods with all due respect .I am truly blessed ,grateful and honoured to have everyone's presence and consent for my coronation .I shall abide by the laws of Dharma ,and I promise to serve the people ,protect the helpless and the innocent ,and make sure that Dharma always wins and succeeds ,forever .The time has come to honour a special ,revered guest who has supported us in dire needs and who strives to protect Dharma ." He said and turned towards Krishna "Vasudeva Sri Krishna ,the jewel among the Yadava clan ,the preserver and protector of Dharma ,the embodiment of righteousness, is the honoured guest among all of us and truly a special person ." He said and folded his hands in respect and devotion towards Krishna ,bowing his head humbly .Krishna nodded ,smiling warmly .
My heart swelled with joy ,pride and love as I watched the scene being unfolded. Krishna sat on an intricately carved golden throne ,his presence commanding and radiating divine authority across the whole hall .The Pandavas along with Draupadi served him ,washed his feet ,offered various offerings .Sages and Brahmins chanted various prayers and mantras ,sang songs that glorified his divine nature .The hall was filled with Krishna's divine aura and vibration .Everyone erupted in applause as they witnessed .Various names of Krishna were being chanted along ,adding to the positive vibes .The garland which I had weaved was being brought forward as an offering to him .He slowly took the garland from the golden tray and wore it around his neck majestically .As he wore ,his gaze turned towards me ,filled with love ,adoration and affection .
But as the ceremony continued ,Shishupal stood up and intervened "Stop this madness ! What is going on here ?" Everyone stared at him ,the rituals were stopped in between .
"Why is Krishna being chosen as the guest of honour ? What is so special about him ? When other warriors of great personality ,like grandsire Bhishma or guru Dronacharya are present here today ,instead of honouring them why this mere cowherd is being honoured so much ? Are you all aware of him and his deeds ?"
He spoke maliciously and gazed at my lord ,who was still calm with his disarming smile.
"He was born in a jail .And ,in his childhood he used to steal butter from eBay house and garments of girls .He would play his flute and dance with the milkmaids . And when he grew up in age ,he came and kidnapped my bride ,the princess of Vidarbha .He is the one who ran away from the war field once ,like a coward ! This man here is no king ,no Kshatriya ! He is a foolish cowherd ,who assumes that he is the great ,and yet you all believe in his words !" Shishupal kept on insulting Krishna without a stop and used filthy ,inappropriate language against him .
The Pandavas growled in anger ,and they almost took up their weapons .Arjuna stood up and shouted firmly "Prince of Chedi ! After this ceremony ,prepare yourself for a war .I shall myself come and challenge you ,and make you realise your mistakes .You will regret this !" Bhima clenched his fists "I shall break your bones and limbs ,Shishupal !"
The whole place had transformed into a war field .The peaceful ,divine atmosphere which was present all this time had gone ,making the scene more tensed and chaotic .The Pandavas and some of the other kings took up their weapons ,and in return Shishupal drew his sword out ,followed by his blind followers. Duryodhana and Shakuni were silent ,but they were quite enjoying the scenario of Krishna being insulted and an obstacle in the Yudhishthira's coronation .My lord was completely silent and calm ,with his disarming smile .He stood up and placed a hand on Arjuna's shoulder "Please ,I request you all to take your seats .This is between me and Shishupal .Whatever he has to say ,let him speak so ."
"Do you think I am afraid of you Krishna ? Do you think I will be shaken by your calm and authoritative demeanour ?" He spoke with a tone of disgust and suddenly he turned towards me ,his gaze piercing and filled with vengeance .Fear ran through my mind and body ,sending shivers .
"Now everyone ,meet this princess Godha ,the one who has won Krishna's heart .Tell us Godha ,how did you meet him for the first time ? Did this cowherd cast his spell upon you ? Come on ,come on ,tell us ....." His sentences were filled with sarcasm ,malice and ill intentions .Tears started to fill in my eyes as I felt all the eyes watching me keenly .My love and devotion for Krishna was being humiliated ,and I could do nothing but stand still .I felt Subhadra's hand across mine ,her gentle grasp signifying support and love for me .I looked down and stepped back ,nervously and panting softly .
"Oh Krishna ,why do we have to face this?" I thought to myself ,as I controlled my tears .
Then I slowly observed Krishna ,whose usual gentle and disarming smile was gone ,his face darkening .His eyes narrowed ,and I could feel the anger and frustration building in him .His jaws tightened slightly and his fists clenched ,and his lotus eyes were burning with intensity and fury .But Shishupal was not aware of anything , and kept on insulting him ,along with the Pandavas ,Draupadi and even me .The intensity of filthiness and malice in his words increased minute by minute ,making extremely unpleasant for everyone .I closed my ears ,unable to hear anymore words against my lord .My hands and legs trembled ,I started to hyperventilate and my vision blurred . I felt as if my life was being destroyed ,and my heart was being ripped apart every time when Shishupal insulted Krishna .I breathed heavily ,and I was in a state that I could fall down anytime ,but I stood tall and remained firm ,for my beloved Krishna .
Suddenly ,my lord stood up instantly and raised his hand "Enough ! Shishupal ,you have made 100 sins and now ,you are no longer fit to be called as a man ,or live ." His voice boomed across the hall ,as sharp as a sword ,filled with divine authority and commanding .Shishupal ,who wasn't aware of his mistakes till the last minute,panicked and pleaded for mercy instantly "My lord ,forgive me ,I was blinded by my rage and deep hatred....."
"Silence ! You have committed 100 sins and I am no longer bound to my promise .You have spoken ill about everyone present here ,including me ,including my loved ones. Therefore ,I shall kill you now and this instant !" Saying this he raised his finger ,which radiated a divine aura around him .His blazing Sudarshana Chakra appeared on his finger ,swirling around and seeking to destroy the evil .The weapon radiated such a bright light ,equivalent to the rays of a thousand suns .After hearing Krishna's commands , the chakra swirled towards Shishupal with blazing light around it and before anyone could realise ,he lay on the floor without his head ,dead .
"May your soul be filled with peace ,and may you be freed from all the darkness and sins ,dear cousin ." Krishna muttered ,his eyes filled with compassion as Shishupal's soul merged in his lotus feet ,seeking surrender.
(Credits to the creator ð)